The Future Awards Africa (TFAA), co-founded by HBC Holdings Chair, Chude Jideonwo, and Adebola Williams under RED | For Africa, is marking 20 years of celebrating and recognising exceptional young Africans whose work is shaping the continent’s future. Established in 2006, the awards have grown into one of Africa’s most influential youth platforms, identifying and amplifying emerging leaders across business, technology, public service, advocacy, entertainment and the creative industries. Over two decades, TFAA has provided a platform for young Africans to gain recognition, build influence and contribute to conversations about the continent’s future.
The landmark 20th edition, themed “Celebrating the Redefiners: Africa’s AI Generation,” is scheduled for November 2026 in Lagos, with the Balmoral Events Centre announced as the venue. This year’s celebration will feature a multinational hosting team representing Nigeria, Tanzania, Malawi, Botswana and Kenya: Genoveva Umeh, Idris Sultan, Priscilla Kayira, Resego Motlhokathari and Claudia Nasibwa. The nominees span 26 categories, recognising young Africans aged 18 to 35 across fields including technology, entrepreneurship, music, film, sports, governance, fashion, literature and community development. Among those recognised this year are technology entrepreneur Odunayo Eweniyi, athletes Letsile Tebogo and Tobi Amusan, singer Nikita Kering, filmmaker Eniola Korty Olanrewaju and author Damilare Kuku.
As it enters its third decade, The Future Awards Africa continues to advance the vision on which it was founded: that Africa’s young people are not simply the leaders of tomorrow, but are already shaping the continent today. Organised by The Future Project, the awards’ 20th anniversary is an opportunity to recognise the generations of changemakers whose work has challenged conventions, created opportunities and expanded what is possible for young Africans.
To explore this year’s nominees, award categories and the anniversary edition, visit awards.thefutureafrica.com.